Most local and state governments require companies to acquire government licenses and permits in order to work within certain industries. The purpose for this is to ensure that professionals working in dangerous, sensitive and highly specialized capacities have the necessary qualifications to deliver what they sell at a minimal risk to the client. The fees that companies must pay for these licenses and permits vary according to type and locality.

Business Licenses

Depending on the city, county or state in which your business is located, you may need to acquire a general business license regardless of the industry in which you operate. State and local governments use fees collected through business licenses to offset the costs associated with administering government services related to business and commerce. However, for the sake of promoting business, some state and local governments do not require business owners to purchase a general business license. The federal government of the United States does not require any type of general business license. State and local government licenses cost between $75 and $100 on average.

Building and Construction Permits

A common type of permit that many businesses must pay for is a building or construction permit. When applying for a permit, a business will go through the necessary steps to prove that it has enacted all appropriate measures to ensure that its new structure will abide by local and state ordinances and that it will not become a burden to the community. Depending on the type of structure that a company seeks to build and its location, a building permit may cost hundreds or even tens of thousands of dollars.

Professional Licenses

Various types of professionals must have licenses in order to work in certain areas of expertise. Some examples include financial advisers, attorneys, educators, insurance and securities sales professionals, auto mechanics, health care professionals, real estate agents and professional drivers. These licenses often range between tens and hundreds of dollars.

License and Permit Information

The Small Business Administration is a federal government entity that offers various types of help to businesses that are just getting started, such as loans, training and informational resources. One very useful resource that the SBA provides is a location-specific search tool to help you find all necessary business licenses and permits that are necessary for any industry operating in the United States. You can use this tool to find the exact cost for business licenses and permits that are specific to your location and industry.